Pope Francis Health Update: Vatican Says Prognosis Remains Guarded

Pope Francis’s clinical condition “has remained stable,” according to the latest update from the Holy See Press Office released Sunday evening.

The Vatican emphasized that the 88-year-old pontiff “has not required non-invasive mechanical ventilation, but only supplemental high-flow oxygenation” and “does not have a fever.”

The Context

The head of the Catholic church has been hospitalized since February 14, after doctors identified a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection that developed into pneumonia.

Pope Francis has long struggled with respiratory issues and had part of his lungs removed when he was a young adult and contracted pleurisy. His ongoing hospitalization impacts leadership continuity within the Vatican.

What To Know

Sunday’s statement noted that “no direct consequences from last Friday’s isolated bronchospasm are evident,” referring to a concerning episode where Francis experienced a bronchial spasm that caused him to inhale vomit, requiring temporary mechanical ventilation.

According to the Vatican, the Holy Father participated in Mass Sunday morning “together with those who have been caring for him during these days of hospitalization” and “afterward, he alternated rest with prayer.”

This level of activity suggests some improvement, though officials cautioned that “the risk of a deterioration in the Pope’s condition remains.”

What People Are Saying

Pope Francis expressed gratitude X, formerly Twitter: “I would like to thank you for your prayers, which rise up to the Lord from the hearts of so many faithful from many parts of the world. I feel all your affection and closeness, and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people.”

The Vatican said in a statement: “Given the complexity of the clinical picture, the prognosis remains guarded.”

What Happens Next

Catholics worldwide continue to pray for their leader as followers descend on Rome for the Vatican’s Holy Year. Questions remain over how the Pope will lead the church through the upcoming Easter period.